Commercial Music (B.A.)

You’re talented, driven, and ready for a music career that could include anything from performance, instruction, and directing to career management, publishing, booking, or music technology.

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You’re talented, driven, and ready for a music career that could include anything from performance, instruction, and directing to career management, publishing, booking, or music technology. This is what the Commercial Music program at Upstate is designed to deliver.

Fusing musical artistry with industry know-how for fulfilling and dynamic careers.

A key aspect of the program is its integration of areas like music business, publishing, technology, and education with the development of skills in performance, songwriting, ear training, repertoire, pedagogy, composition, arranging, and improvisation. Along with instruction by accomplished performing musicians and scholars, this will empower you with the broad range of practical skills it takes to succeed in today’s music industry.

You’ll find an array of internship opportunities with organizations and at music festivals throughout the region. You’ll explore popular styles such as rock, R&B, pop, country, funk, jazz, and Latin. And you’ll develop your skills performing with Upstate ensembles including the Commercial Music Combo, Jazz Combo, Guitar Ensemble, and Upstate Vocal Ensemble.